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With the Swift, Suzuki already has a supermini contender. So the addition of the Indian-built Baleno to the range might seem like needless duplication.
Measuring 3,995 mm (157.3”) from bumper to bumper, the Baleno – which is available in five-door form only – is 145 mm (5.7”) longer than a Swift. That makes it about the same size as the Peugeot 208 and Renault Clio, two of the B-segment's largest current members.

Moving up to the slightly posher SZ5 sees the standard air conditioning upgraded to climate control, plus the cruise control gains an adaptive function. Furthermore, a 4.2” central colour trip display, LED rear lights and Radar Brake Support are fitted as well.

In a similar vein, engine choice is pretty straightforward. A 1.0 litre, three-cylinder turbocharged Boosterjet petrol unit should account for the majority of sales.

This features a 89 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS) 1.2 litre four-cylinder Dualjet petrol engine, which is combined with a belt-driven Integrated Starter Generator to aid acceleration and provide regenerative braking. Electricity produced is stored in a compact lithium-ion battery pack.

70.6 mpg (4.0 l/100km) and 94 g/km on the combined cycle are impressive, but performance does suffer. The 0-62 mph sprint takes 12.3 seconds, for example, while an SHVS-equipped Baleno can only reach a top speed of 111 mph (178 km/h).

Deliveries are due to begin in the UK next month. The price list is another thing that clashes with the Swift...